]]>When the sun gets low in the evening, we love to sit back and watch the sand dunes turn gold from across the tidal river. Afternoon heat fades and tips of waves shimmer all the way to the horizon. What better time to match nature’s splendor with some liquid gold of your own — a craft concoction from any of these top five Maine breweries can make the perfect addition to an Ogunquit evening.

Shipyard Brewing Company — Portland

Shipyard is one of the most recognized names in Maine brewing, and with good reason. Their lineup has grown to 20 beers over the last two decades and the Brewers Association ranks them the 25th biggest craft brewery in the country. You can probably find a smattering of their suds back home, but there’s still plenty of reason to stop by as part of a day trip to Portland. See first-hand what the crew’s been up to on an evening brewery tour, or try samples in the tasting room during the day.

Maine Beer Co. — Freeport

Their best-known IPA might be dubbed Lunch, but a pint from Maine Beer Company goes well with just about any time of day on vacation. This Maine brewery is a little further north in Freeport, another 10 minutes past Portland for a total of 50 from here in Ogunquit. Your trip will be rewarded at the eight-tap tasting room, which often features a beer or two that’s not distributed anywhere else. If you’d rather skip the drive and pair Lunch with dinner in Ogunquit, check the current draft list at Cornerstone — our local wood-fired pizza house usually reserves a tap or two for Maine Beer Co.

Oxbow — Newcastle

Belgian lovers, this Maine brewery is for you. Oxbow’s farmhouse brewery takes the best of the monks’ traditions and adds a modern American twist. Bloomberg Business calls it one of the 10 best craft breweries in New England, thanks in part to the liquid innovation known as Saison dell’Aragosta. Don’t be fooled by this beer’s Italian influence: it’s brewed with local sea salt and fresh lobster for a pure Maine flavor profile.

Banded Horn Brewing Co. — Biddeford

Banded Horn Brewery earns its name

Banded Horn is at the heart of an artisanal revival in Biddeford. This Maine brewery set up shop in a 150-year-old repurposed mill, making unique beers alongside woodworkers, visual artists, pie makers, and some 100 other local businesses. The crowdfunded operation campaigned its way to existence on Kickstarter in 2013, but don’t write it off as an internet novelty: local ingredients like Maine-foraged spruce tips keep Banded Horn’s local authenticity score high. If you’re heading up there, bring a paddle. Biddeford Pool is a great place to go kayaking in southern Maine.

Rising Tide Brewing Company — Portland

Another awesome Portland brewery, Rising Tide is family owned and keeps its focus on high-quality small batches. These unfiltered, unpasteurized beers retain all of the flavor and boldness of of the yeast that created them. You can visit the brewery for a tour and fill a growler to bring back to your Ogunquit cottage. Pour your Rising Tide slowly — the yeast will settle to the bottom like coffee grounds from an old-fashioned percolator.

The Maine brewery scene is fermenting faster than we can keep track of — these are five of the best in our opinion, but don’t be afraid to experiment. With the beach by your side, you can’t go wrong. Cheers to Maine beer and relaxing in Ogunquit!

]]>Visiting Maine without cracking into a lobster might just be a vacation crime. Caught daily and only prepared fresh, this iconic Maine shellfish has gained a reputation and for good reason. Picking the best lobster dinner in Ogunquit comes down to personal preference: you can find everything from stew to the classic full lobster dinner. Grab your bib and get crackin’, because you can’t go wrong at these five Ogunquit lobster shacks.
Photo: The Lobster Shack, Ogunquit

Ogunquit Lobster Pound

Deemed Maine’s oldest original lobster pound and recently named Phantom Gourmet’s “best boiled lobster” in New England, Ogunquit Lobster Pound has been serving up lobster daily since 1931. Located right in our backyard, this iconic Maine restaurant has remained a favorite of visitors and locals alike. While there have been many updates over their 84 years in business, they remain true to the tradition of a lobster pound: you go outside to the pound and pick your own lobster and then watch it cook in fresh seawater right on the spot. A lobster dinner doesn’t get fresher than that.

Photo: Ogunquit Lobster Pound

Barnacle Billy’s

Nestled in Perkins Cove, Barnacle Billy’s is entering it 54th year and is still among the best places for lobster dinner in Ogunquit, ME. The restaurant offers extensive indoor seating as well as an outdoor sun deck to view the harbor. Possibly even more popular than the classic lobster dinner is their homemade lobster roll and stew. A good roll needs to have plenty of meat in it, and Barnacle Billy’s delivers. If lobster isn’t your thing, choose from the array of other summer classics like barbecue chicken and creamy clam chowder.

Beach Plum Lobster Farm

Known for their no frills, no nonsense attitude, Beach Plum Lobster Farm in Ogunquit, ME, is run by a husband a wife team who serve two things: fresh steamed lobster and clams. This restaurant has quickly gained a following for perfecting the craft of serving up Maine lobster. Many visitors rave about how affordable yet consistently delicious their meals are. This spot is perfect if what you’re looking for is simply a perfectly cooked lobster dinner.

Photo: The Lobster Shack

The Lobster Shack

The Lobster Shack, also located in Perkins Cove, occupies a piece of Ogunquit history — the early 1900s building was a lobsterman’s shack from the start. While it may not be filled with lobster traps and buoys anymore, one thing remains true: fresh Maine lobster comes through the doors daily. Start with their famous steamed clams before moving onto an array of lobster-filled possibilities. If you’re feeling adventurous order “The Pounder,” a lobster roll stuffed with a full pound of lobster meat.

Fisherman’s Catch

Take a sunset drive and cruise along the Maine harbor up to Fishermen’s Catch, in Wells, ME. Known for its rustic feel and family charm, Fisherman’s Catch will easily become one of the highlights of your trip. It’s no surprise the restaurant has been featured in Coastal Living Magazine, Boston Magazine, and Yankee Magazine for its “seriously good seafood” ranging from lobster tacos to a complete lobster dinner. And no matter the time of day, your meal comes complete with picturesque views of the Wells Harbor.

Nothing rounds out the evening after a Maine lobster dinner quite like stargazing in Ogunquit — pick up some ice cream in town, come on back, and relax. Your Ogunquit cottage or guest room will be waiting.

]]>http://www.dunesonthewaterfront.com/best-ogunquit-lobster-spots/feed/0Vacation Recipes: 5 Easy Treats to Make in Your Cottage Kitchenhttp://www.dunesonthewaterfront.com/vacation-recipes/
http://www.dunesonthewaterfront.com/vacation-recipes/#commentsSat, 06 Jun 2015 13:39:26 +0000http://www.dunesonthewaterfront.com/?p=1393For plenty of us, vacation is a chance to relinquish the oven mitt and let somebody else do the cooking. From pancakes to lobster to... Read More

]]>For plenty of us, vacation is a chance to relinquish the oven mitt and let somebody else do the cooking. From pancakes to lobster to wood-fired pizza and ice cream, Ogunquit restaurants can cover any meal you like. Still, with a full kitchen in your cottage and the view from its screened-in porch, it can be pretty tempting to whip something up right here at The Dunes. These vacation recipes are quick and easy — each requires no more than six ingredients — perfect for rounding out a long day at Ogunquit Beach.

Photo: 4 Ingredient Banana Oat Bars

Breakfast: 4 Ingredient Banana Oat Bars

Whether you’re planning to stroll around town or relax in a beach chair, you need something for breakfast that will keep you going all day. These 4-Ingredient Banana Oat Bars have the nutrients to fuel your adventures, and you can easily tailor the add-ins for picky eaters and pack up the leftovers for a mid-day snack.

Drink: Strawberry & Lime Moscato Punch and Strawberry Lemonade

After a long day in the sun nothing beats a refreshing evening drink. This Strawberry & Lime Moscato Punch can be made in the morning and ready for your return in the evening. And for the little ones looking for a thirst quencher as well, try out this mint limeade requiring only three ingredients.

Photo: Guacamole

Appetizer: The Perfect Guacamole

When the pre-dinner munchies set in, this guacamole recipe can save the day. It only takes five minutes to make — proof that good food doesn’t have to take all day. Open up that bag of tortilla chips and start dipping!

Dinner: Lemon Fish with Asparagus and Tomatoes

This recipe for lemon fish with asparagus and tomatoes looks like it came straight from a restaurant kitchen, when in fact it couldn’t get any easier. Pick up some fresh New England fish and get to it. Everything included in the meal is cooked in a foil packet, meaning easy cleanup and plenty of time to eat some more of that guacamole while it’s cooking.

Photo: Frozen S’mores

Dessert: Frozen S’mores

These frozen s’mores put a twist on the campfire classic. These are sure to beat anyones sweet craving and they’re perfect for a hot day. Plus they don’t need a campfire, making vacation even more stress free.

Whether you’re entertaining or just cooking for family, these recipes can add some delicious fun to your stay in one of our Ogunquit cottages.

]]>http://www.dunesonthewaterfront.com/vacation-recipes/feed/2A Dunes Day Trip: Portland Maine Attractionshttp://www.dunesonthewaterfront.com/portland-maine-attractions/
http://www.dunesonthewaterfront.com/portland-maine-attractions/#commentsThu, 28 May 2015 16:51:56 +0000http://www.dunesonthewaterfront.com/?p=1388For most of us, the sand and the sunshine in Ogunquit never get old. Still, there’s more to Maine than just the best beaches around,... Read More

]]>For most of us, the sand and the sunshine in Ogunquit never get old. Still, there’s more to Maine than just the best beaches around, and it’s nice to keep an extra option or two up our sleeve for the occasional rainy day. Portland is one of the best nearby places for a Maine day trip. It’s only 35 minutes from The Dunes, and its urban atmosphere plays host to delectable restaurants, top-notch artisans, and plenty of tours and activities. Buckle your seatbelt and check out these top Portland Maine attractions.
Hay Building – Portland, ME – IMG 7732” by Daderot – Own work. Licensed under Public Domain via Wikimedia Commons

Portland Maine Attractions — Lighthouses

On your drive up to Portland, make a stop in Kennebunkport to visit one of our favorite Maine lighthouses at Goat Island. Built in 1833, the lighthouse remains an active and historic landmark of Maine. You can also stroll to the tip of the Greenbelt Walkway in Portland and look back at the city from Bug Light.

The Portland Art Scene

Once in the city, the Portland Museum of Art is an excellent destination, known for its collection of American, European, and contemporary art, in addition to works from iconic Maine Artists. If you want to continue viewing local Maine artisans the Old Port district is home to some of the best galleries and boutiques in Maine, plus it ends right on the water for a perfect view of the wharves.

Portland Maine Restaurants

Photo: Duckfat, Portland, ME

We highly recommend getting a taste of Portland while you’re there — after all, the city has been referred to as a “gastro-tourism paradise.” Duckfat, a three-time Food Network Chopped Champion restaurant might be the epitome of homemade classics. Sandwiches, salads, and of course, their mouthwatering belgian fries fried in duck fat, are sure to make mouthwatering memories. Otto, a favorite for pizza, slices up unexpected flavor combinations while maintaining a classic New York style crust, perfect to eat at their wine bar or to munch on while walking around town.

For a quick treat, stop by The Holy Donut on Exchange Street. All 16 of their unique flavors are decadent, and don’t worry, they won’t tell your nutritionist back home about your visit. If you’re thinking about an icy treat head to Gorgeous Gelato on Fore St., where local milk is the maine ingredient.

Portland Maine Tours

Sometimes sightseeing is more fun when someone else does the planning. Portland is home to some unique local touring companies who know Portland Maine attractions better than anyone else. Casco Bay Lines provides sunrise and sunset tours all with different island destinations in the Portland harbor. Maine Foodie Tours offers a mouthwatering adventure filled with flavorful local dishes and rich culture for the local or far-away traveler.

It would be a shame to head north without sampling some of Portland’s renowned Maine breweries and distilleries, which offer tastings and tours all week long. Allagash Brewing Company is home to some of the first craft-brewed Belgian beers in New England. They brew six staples year round, with plenty of seasonal experimentation. For a full-scale brew tour, check out Brewvana — they’ll take you and your friends around on a decked out, all-inclusive craft beer tour.

The best part of a day trip to Portland? It’s only 35 minutes away from your home away from home here at The Dunes — your Ogunquit cottage will be ready and waiting for your return.

]]>http://www.dunesonthewaterfront.com/portland-maine-attractions/feed/05 Reasons Why Ogunquit Beach is the Best Beach in Mainehttp://www.dunesonthewaterfront.com/best-beach-in-maine/
http://www.dunesonthewaterfront.com/best-beach-in-maine/#commentsFri, 08 May 2015 18:24:38 +0000http://www.dunesonthewaterfront.com/?p=1382Letterman may have taken his final bow, but top ten lists of all kinds are still going strong. We keep an eye out every year and... Read More

]]>Letterman may have taken his final bow, but top ten lists of all kinds are still going strong. We keep an eye out every year and sure enough, our hometown beach lands consistently among the best in New England. It makes sense to us — our founders picked this spot as their favorite back in the 1930s. We’re feeling bold this year, so we’re going to take it one step further and say this: Ogunquit beach is the best beach in Maine. Period.

Don’t get us wrong — there are plenty of gorgeous spots to go for a swim along the Maine coast and we don’t mean to knock them. All in good fun, here are five reasons we think Ogunquit beach is a little better than all the rest.

1. The sand is extra soft

It sounds obvious, we know, but let us explain: there’s something special about the sand here. Its fine white grains are almost sugary in texture, though we can’t recommend eating them. The entire land mass in between Ogunquit’s tidal river and the Atlantic Ocean is made up of sand — there are no rocks in sight. Even at high tide, a great deal of this soft sand is exposed, and when the water goes out, there’s even more room to explore. Considering how many other Maine beaches have pebbles or are downright rocky, we think we have a winner.

2. It’s three miles long

Boardwalk from the Ogunquit River

Most beaches stretch a couple hundred yards at best, and they can get seriously crowded. Ogunquit Beach is three miles long, so there’s plenty of room to spread out. We think of it in three sections, but it’s really one continuous beach. Main Beach, the southernmost portion, is the downtown hotspot, with a parking lot and plenty of public facilities. It’s located at the mouth of the Ogunquit River, which empties out at low tide. At the north end, the area known as Footbridge Beach also has parking and public facilities, as well as a pedestrian bridge across the river. With so much room to run around, it’s no wonder Yankee Magazine calls this the best southern Maine beach for avoiding crowds.

The best-kept secret is the middle section, which takes some walking to get to from either of the public access points. It’s the quietest area and stays uncrowded through even the busiest parts of the season.

3. It’s perfect for families

With the kids in tow, a trip to the beach doesn’t need any extra complications. Family members of all ages can relax and have fun at Ogunquit Beach without worrying. We have great lifeguards, and our friendly local police officers post updates about the tides and weather conditions to their Facebook page. That amazing sand we mentioned also helps make swimming safer — it recedes gradually into the ocean, lowering the risk of a strong undertow that comes with steeper dropoffs. Public restrooms and concessions at the two main access points make the kids’ mini-emergencies a breeze, and there’s plenty of room for them to run wild once they set foot in the sand.

4. Sand castle contest + kite festival = more fun

The best beach in Maine wouldn’t be complete without this duo of annual events. The sand castle contest, which takes place in July and is scheduled around the tides, calls on plastic shovel artisans from near and far to show off their most intricate creations. The Ogunquit Kite Festival, part of the weeklong Capriccio festival, makes the most of September’s sea breeze, with hundreds of colorful kites flying high along the shoreline.

5. It’s in the best beach town

Just over an hour north of Boston, the best beach in Maine happens to be pretty accessible. And according to Yankee Magazine, it’s adjacent to the best beach town around. Ogunquit has plenty going on for those willing to venture a couple of blocks inland. The Ogunquit Museum of American Art and the Leavitt Theatre make great rainy day activities, and the Ogunquit Playhouse brings world-class talent to a historic summer stage right down the street.

The best part about Ogunquit Beach’s location, in our totally unbiased opinion, is that it’s directly across the tidal river from our Ogunquit cottages and guest rooms here at The Dunes on the Waterfront. When the tide is out we can walk right over, and when it’s in, our guests use complimentary row boats to get across. Once you’re there, take a look to your left and right — you’ll be right in the middle of the quiet center section, away from the crowds, with all that gorgeous sand at your feet.

]]>http://www.dunesonthewaterfront.com/best-beach-in-maine/feed/0Our Favorite Maine Lighthouses Near Ogunquithttp://www.dunesonthewaterfront.com/our-favorite-maine-lighthouses-near-ogunquit/
http://www.dunesonthewaterfront.com/our-favorite-maine-lighthouses-near-ogunquit/#commentsTue, 28 Apr 2015 19:13:03 +0000http://www.dunesonthewaterfront.com/?p=1361Nearly as famous as our lobster, Maine lighthouses are an iconic part of the Pine Tree State. Whether you’re planning a first visit to the... Read More

]]>Nearly as famous as our lobster, Maine lighthouses are an iconic part of the Pine Tree State. Whether you’re planning a first visit to the southern Maine coast or you’ve been vacationing here for years, you owe it to yourself to check a lighthouse or two off your sightseeing list.

Nubble Light — York

Cape Neddick Lightstation, more fondly known as Nubble Light, is one of the nearest Maine lighthouses to us here at The Dunes — about 20 minutes away in York. It’s one of our absolute favorites, too, with the festive Lighting of the Nubble gracing its trademark red roofline every summer for Christmas in July. The lighthouse itself, which first operated in 1879, is situated on an island and isn’t open to the public, but you’ll find a gift shop, restrooms, and top-notch views at Sohier Park on the mainland.

Goat Island Light — Kennebunkport

About the same distance from Ogunquit as the Nubble but in the opposite direction, Goat Island Light first operated off the coast of Kennebunkport in 1833. You can check it out from the landing at the end of Pier Road in Cape Porpoise, and there’s a dock on the island for visitors with their own small boats.

Goat Island Light was operated by an actual keeper until the fall of 1990, making it the last Maine lighthouse to give way to modern automated technology. Caretakers still live in the residence on the island and are happy to give impromptu tours of the grounds when they’re home, though visitors are asked to respect the area as a private residence.

Wood Island Light — Biddeford Pool

About 40 minutes north of The Dunes in Biddeford, Wood Island Light is well worth a little extra time on the road. It’s one of only two island lighthouses in Maine that are fully open to the public with scheduled tours. In July and August, you can take a 15 minute boat ride to the island, where you’ll walk a half-mile boardwalk to the lighthouse itself. Views from atop the tower’s 60-stair spiral are stunning, though for safety reasons, children have to be at least 12 to climb the tower.

More Portland Area Lighthouses

If you’re up for visiting the Portland area, about 50 minutes north of Ogunquit, you can see another set of Maine lighthouses relatively close to each other. Portland Head Light has a museum in the former keepers’ residence. The Portland Breakwater Lighthouse, or “Bug Light,” is located at the tip of the Greenbelt Walkway, Portland’s version of Marginal Way, which offers great views of Portland Harbor and the city’s skyline.

Two Lights State Park makes a great picnic spot, with views of twin island lighthouses that first operated in 1828. The lights aren’t open to the public, though one is electronically controlled and still active and the other has been converted to a private residence.

We’re extremely proud of our seafaring history here on the Maine coast, and we’re lucky to be surrounded by so many well-preserved landmarks from days gone by. Here at The Dunes in Ogunquit, though, our sandy shores are better suited to relaxation than navigation — when it’s time to take a break from exploring Maine lighthouses, your seaside cottage or guest room will be ready and waiting.

]]>For plenty of big corporate hotels, it’s not easy being green. Here at The Dunes, it’s just part of our daily routine. We haven’t had to change much to be a green hotel by today’s standards — taking care of the environment has been a top priority since day one. That’s 80 seasons of green lodging, and we’re only going greener. After all, Ogunquit’s natural beauty is why we’re here in the first place. These five initiatives help keep us on Mother Nature’s good side.

Clean and Green with the Global Soap Project

The founders of the Global Soap Project and Clean the World realized that throwing out barely used bars of soap every time a guest checks out doesn’t make any sense. They collect our used soap, recycle it, and distribute new bars of soap to people in need around the world. The soap stays out of our landfills and ends up washing hands and preventing deaths in areas where the hygiene we take for granted isn’t yet the norm.

Extra Green Grass

When it comes to lawn care, we’ve got a lot of ground to cover. Most of our 12 acres are covered with grass, and since we’re right on the shore of the tidal river, runoff from industrial fertilizer would be a major threat to the estuary ecosystem. If you’re wondering how we manage to keep it all looking so lush, look no further than local Maine farms. At the end of each season, right after we close in the fall, our landscaping company spreads one big application of natural fertilizer. It makes for a smelly couple of weeks, but it’s worth it. The fertilizer breaks down into nutrients and fresh soil by the time guests check in in the spring.

Not Your Average Swimming Pool

We treat our pool with bromine instead of chlorine, and it’s good for both swimmers and the environment. The benefits are all in what’s not there — no chemical smell, no corrosive effect on skin, no bleaching of swimwear. Bromine has been used in spas for years, and our system makes it practical and efficient for use outdoors in our pool. Though the pool has a propane heater for backup, we hardly have to use it. The insulated cover reduces heat loss at night and the pool’s darker liner helps absorb plenty of sunlight.

Green Cleaning Supplies

Water doesn’t disappear when it goes down the drain, so why stop thinking about it? The traditional harsh chemicals used to clean showers and sinks in hotels are often overkill and they end up hurting the environment. We follow the Maine Department of Environmental Conservation’s green lodging recommendations and use Green Seal certified cleaning products that avoid bleach and other harmful additives. A little extra elbow grease goes a long way.

Reuse and Recycle

The basics of green lodging are still going strong at The Dunes. We give guests the opportunity to reuse linens and towels from day to day, reducing water and detergent waste. Every guest room has a recycling bin, and our staff works to keep everything possible out of the landfill.

When you’re located adjacent to such a rare wildlife habitat as the sand dunes along Ogunquit Beach, green lodging is less a decision and more a way of life. The next time you’re here rising with the sun or relaxing in the sand, rest easy knowing your Maine vacation is as eco-friendly as possible.

]]>http://www.dunesonthewaterfront.com/green-lodging-eco-friendly-hotel/feed/0Shopping the Kittery Outlets in Maine: Six Top Tipshttp://www.dunesonthewaterfront.com/six-top-tips-for-shopping-kittery-outlets/
http://www.dunesonthewaterfront.com/six-top-tips-for-shopping-kittery-outlets/#commentsWed, 18 Mar 2015 19:54:16 +0000http://www.dunesonthewaterfront.com/?p=1312For some visitors to Maine, every day is a beach day, bar none. For the savvy shopper, though, a trip to the Ogunquit coastline comes... Read More

]]>For some visitors to Maine, every day is a beach day, bar none. For the savvy shopper, though, a trip to the Ogunquit coastline comes with a second destination built in: the Kittery Outlets. On top of the opportunities for Maine shopping here in Ogunquit, the Kittery Outlets are located near the southern entrance to our state, just twenty minutes down the road. This Maine shopping paradise is well within reach for quick stops and full-day shopping trips alike. You’re sure to find a deal on any visit, but these six tips can help you track down exactly what you’re looking for at the best price possible.

1. Timing is Everything

The Kittery Outlets are busiest in the summer, from the end of May until the beginning of October. If you plan ahead, though, you can time a late-spring or early-fall visit to avoid the rush and still enjoy gorgeous weather along the coast. These are prime times of year to find specials and packages at The Dunes, too. If you’re stuck shopping in peak season, get in and out early. The best time to shop on any given day is 9am, right when the stores open, and you can catch extra deals at Old Navy on Tuesdays. The Kittery Outlets are open every day of the year except Christmas and Easter.

2. Cash in on Coupons

The Kittery Outlets have a coupon book available for $5 at any of the welcome centers located around the store clusters, a worthwhile investment, especially for groups. It’s free with a AAA, AARP, or Military ID card and includes hundreds of dollars in savings at some of the best places to shop in Maine. You can find additional coupons online.

3. Prioritize Unique Stores

With over 120 stores, it’s nearly impossible to cover every stop on the list. Consider prioritizing stores that are tough to find anywhere else, including other outlet malls — the Kittery Outlets include one of only four Lululemon outlets in the United States. The famous Kittery Trading Post is another rare gem, with a variety of top outdoor brands under one roof at company outlet prices.

4. Aim For Teacher Appreciation Days

April 17 through May 3 makes up Teacher Appreciation Days at the Kittery Outlets. Teachers are welcome to stop at any of the Welcome Centers to receive a free gift bag. They can also enter to win a special gift basket filled with goodies and gifts from area businesses. Similar appreciation events happen each month, so be sure to check the sales and events page before your trip.

5. Make a Fun Shopping Map

It is definitely worth it to plan your Maine outlets excursion ahead of time. Because there are so many stores, mapping out the journey will make everyone’s time more enjoyable. Print out this handy Kittery Outlet map, find a highlighter, and start strategizing. We recommend starting at either the North or South end of the shops and methodically working your way to the other end.

6. Don’t Forget the Food!

Keep up your shopping stamina with some snacks and lunch along the way. Be sure to mark out the food stops on your plans and take the time to refuel, double-check your lists, and adjust plans. If you’re shopping on your way out of Maine, we recommend stopping for dinner and a drink in Portsmouth, New Hampshire.

Are you a veteran Kittery Outlet shopper? Let us know your best tips in the comments below or via Facebook or Twitter.

]]>http://www.dunesonthewaterfront.com/six-top-tips-for-shopping-kittery-outlets/feed/1Six Places to Go Kayaking in Southern Mainehttp://www.dunesonthewaterfront.com/six-places-go-kayaking-southern-maine/
http://www.dunesonthewaterfront.com/six-places-go-kayaking-southern-maine/#commentsTue, 24 Feb 2015 17:48:52 +0000http://www.dunesonthewaterfront.com/?p=1306One boat, one paddle with two blades, and a whole lot of open water to explore — if that sounds like the perfect way to... Read More

]]>One boat, one paddle with two blades, and a whole lot of open water to explore — if that sounds like the perfect way to spend an afternoon, you’re in luck. There are plenty of places to go kayaking in southern Maine, both on the high seas and on calm freshwater lakes and rivers.

Ogunquit’s Tidal River

Thanks to the moon’s gravitational pull and our position right on the water, the Ogunquit River flows both to and from the ocean right past The Dunes. Once you get the hang of the river’s changing schedule, you can use it to your advantage in planning your Maine kayaking adventure. You’ll have almost 10 miles of waterway to travel on, with the rare ability to paddle with the current both ways. Using an Ogunquit tide chart, you can plan to leave, paddling north, about an hour and a half before high tide and return as the water recedes. Our dock on the Ogunquit River doubles as a prime put-in for stand-up paddle boarding, too. For a preview, check out this photo tour of an Ogunquit River paddling trip.

Kennebunkport’s Tidal River

The Kennebunk River meets the ocean at Gooch’s Beach, which lies to the west of the mouth. The entire navigable length of the river is five miles, with a one mile stretch from the mouth of the river to the Dock Square bridge not recommended for kayaking because of heavy boat traffic. Above the Dock Square bridge, the river is closed to larger vessels, making it a paddler’s paradise. A few other markers are Durrells Bridge at 3.3 miles and the Railroad bridge five miles from the mouth. North of the Railroad bridge, it’s time to turn around.

Rachel Carson Wildlife Refuge

Catch breathtaking views and an unmatched opportunity to spot wildlife at the Rachel Carson Wildlife Refuge. You’ll need to know the tides, as some of the terrain can get marshy otherwise. Look for signs that say “Carry In Boat Access Only” — stricter conservation rules regulate where you can put in or take out your canoe or kayak. The three places to spot these signs are: Chauncey Creek on Seapoint Road in Kittery, Maine, Little River at the end of Granite Point Road in Biddeford, Maine, and Spurwink River at the fish pier on Route 77 in Scarborough, Maine.

Biddeford Pool

This relatively large tidal pool has something for everyone. It connects at the northeastern corner to the ocean through a narrow opening called “the Gut.” There is a salt marsh at the southwestern and northwestern corners. The section of the pool closest to the Gut, where boats are moored, has water at all levels of tide, but most of the pool is dry three to four hours before and after high tide. Vines Landing is the best launch site, found on the eastern shore of the gut. At Vines Landing currents can be very strong, so be sure to time the trip with the tide. If you have an urge to get into the ocean, you can do so any time of the day or at any tide – just be ready for some brisk paddling for the first little bit if going against the tide. Parking is available at the launch site at no cost, but is somewhat limited.

Cape Porpoise

Lobster, lighthouses, and islands, oh my! This is some of the best kayaking in Maine. To the east is Stage Harbor, is a quieter area surrounded by islands. Beware of poison ivy if you set foot on the islands. At the main entrance to Cape Porpoise Harbor is a working lighthouse, Goat Island Light, which has been restored to its original condition. You are welcome to paddle to Goat Island and land at the beach area on the northeastern side. Tours of the lighthouse are offered periodically — join one if the timing is right. To the west of the harbor there is a marsh with a small creek that leads to Turbats Creek. It is only accessible for roughly 3 hours on either side of high tide. You’ll notice this is true of many of the areas around Cape Porpoise. The best spot to launch is the Causeway on Pier Road, about 100 yards before the end of the road. Parking is limited right at the spot, but you’ll find more just past the causeway on the right side of the road or at the Pier Parking Lot.

Bob Dennis kayaking near Goat Island Lightstation, via Facebook

Kids Kayak Too at Goose Rocks Beach

Planning gets a little easier at Goose Rocks Beach, which is accessible regardless of the tide and makes a great place to bring the kids. There are plenty of resting spots along the two miles of sandy beach for little paddlers to take a break. Goosefare Bay generally offers good protection from the wind, with the exception that an especially strong wind from a southerly direction will make the water a bit rough. If the winds do pick up, “Goose Rocks” provides some added protection. These rocks can be found 100 yards off the beach. The most convenient launch site is at the end of Jeffery’s Way on the eastern end of the beach, where kayaks can be unloaded at the beach access point. To park anywhere in the Goose Rocks Beach area, a Town of Kennebunkport parking sticker is required. You can buy a sticker — cash only — at the Police Station or at the Goose Rocks Beach General Store. You’ll drive right by the store, so it is a convenient stop on the way.

Make a Day Out Of It at Ogunquit Beach and River

The Ogunquit River is by far the closest of these places to kayak — it’s right out the door of your Ogunquit seaside cottage or guest room. Plan a whole day of your vacation around it by finding high tide on the river and planning your kayaking excursion first. Depending on the time of day that is best for kayaking, bring along the gear you’ll need to relax in the soft white sand of Ogunquit Beach.

]]>http://www.dunesonthewaterfront.com/six-places-go-kayaking-southern-maine/feed/2Five Great Ogunquit Maine Restaurants for Date Nighthttp://www.dunesonthewaterfront.com/5-great-ogunquit-maine-restaurants-date-night/
http://www.dunesonthewaterfront.com/5-great-ogunquit-maine-restaurants-date-night/#commentsThu, 29 Jan 2015 20:56:00 +0000http://www.dunesonthewaterfront.com/?p=1300Planning a date night or just planning on planning a date night (these things take a lot of effort!) during your getaway in Ogunquit? Whether... Read More

]]>Planning a date night or just planning on planning a date night (these things take a lot of effort!) during your getaway in Ogunquit? Whether you are just browsing or are in full-fledged planning mode, here is our advice for the best Ogunquit Maine restaurants to make any long-awaited date night special.

5 Ogunquit Maine Restaurants For Lovers (or anyone, really)

Every couple has their own style, so here are some favorite options to please both the fanatic foodies and the beach bums.

1. Find food perfection at MC Perkins Cove. Run by James Beard Award-winning chefs Mark Gaier and Clark Frasier, foodies will delight in menu items like sesame-crusted, deep-fried rainbow trout or steamed whole Maine lobster. All are cooked to perfection using hand grown and handpicked fresh herbs. And, did we mention the stellar view at MC Perkins Cove? This foodie paradise sits right on the water, overlooking the waves that crash on the rocky shore. No doubt this belongs on this list of best Ogunquit Maine restaurants.

Oarweed Cove — what you’ll see from the Ogunquit, Maine, restaurant, MC Perkins

2. Keep it casual at Cornerstone. Enjoy a few craft brews and fresh Maine lobster a different way at Cornerstone (no lobster bibs and shell-cracking required). The artisan pizzas at this restaurant in the middle of Ogunquit are creative and adored by locals and guests alike. A local’s favorite is the Lobster Pizza covered with tarragon-sherry ricotta and a mozzarella-provolone blend, finished with chilled fresh Maine lobster salad, scallions, and lemon aioli. Another favorite? Try the fabulous Chicken Fig Pizza.

3. Gypsy Sweethearts is for sweethearts. This delightful gem is full of small town charm with big city taste. Try sitting on their wraparound covered porch on a nice evening to enjoy international cuisine with plenty of options for any type of eater. Vegetarians and vegans will eat happily here! Stand-out menu items include Chile-crusted Oven Roasted Rack of Lamb and Mexican-style Grilled Corn.

4. Five-O defines a night out in Ogunquit. With top-notch entrees and an amazing assortment of small plates, there are tons of tantalizing treats on the menu at Five-O. Classically trained chefs prepare seasonally inspired dishes with Italian and Spanish influences, in a kitchen stocked with locally sourced produce, meats, and seafood. Like so many Ogunquit restaurants, there is always something new at Five-O.

5. Loosen Up at Beachfire. The drinks are plentiful (and stiff) and the food is no slouch. House smoked BBQ fills the air and the guests, who are always welcome to linger as long as they like at the giant outdoor fire pit. Enjoy deep conversation or make new friends as you take in the refreshing ocean breeze next to a cozy roaring fire.

Better Than Dessert: An After Dinner Bonus

If date night is still sizzling and you’re not quite ready to turn in, make your way over to the Front Porch for a raucous good time at the piano bar. If you aren’t already, their martinis will have you both smiling in no time. Truth be told, they could be # 6 on the “5 Great Ogunquit Maine Restaurants for Date Night”, but then it wouldn’t be 5 would it?

We know as well as anyone that there are simply too many good Ogunquit, Maine, restaurants for just one date night. So, make it a goal to taste your way through Ogunquit for more than one occasion. For ways to fill the days, try a few ideas from our Ogunquit weekend getaway itinerary!